Border Control Vital for National Defense and Security: Tanzania-Kenya Border Visit

Maintaining Control of Contraband and Illegal Immigration: Vital for National Defense and Security

On 27 September 2024, the Commissioner General of Immigration in Tanzania, Dr Anna Makakala, undertook a visit to the Tanzania-Kenya border with the objective of emphasising the critical role of border control in the context of national defence and security.

Emphasizing the Importance of Border Control

In her address to border officials, CGI Dr. Makakala emphasised the responsibility entrusted to them to protect the border. She underscored the necessity of obedience, patriotism, courage, and professionalism to guarantee national defence, security, and development.

Controlling Trade and Immigration for National Security

CGI Dr. Makakala emphasised the importance of controlling the smuggling of contraband and illegal immigration in order to reinforce the national defence and security apparatus. She urged officials to maintain a high level of vigilance in order to prevent illegal activities that could compromise national security.

Appreciation and Encouragement

Dr. Makakala commended the border officials for their commendable efforts and underscored the trust and confidence placed in them by the nation. She encouraged them to continue their dedicated service, emphasising the importance of their role in ensuring the border is safeguarded for the benefit of both the present and future generations.

Enhanced Security Measures Prior to Elections

In the context of the forthcoming Local Government and Central Government elections, CGI Dr. Makakala underscored the importance of enhancing border protection measures through a collaborative approach with other institutions. She reminded officials that security is a collective responsibility, rather than the sole responsibility of one organisation.

CGI Dr. Makakala’s Visit to Border Outposts

On 27 September 2024, the Commissioner General of Immigration in Tanzania, Dr Anna Makakala, undertook a working visit to two key border outposts.

* Horohoro One Stop Border Post (OSBP), Tanzania: The Horohoro OSBP is situated in Mkinga District, Tanga Region, and represents a vital crossing point between Tanzania and Kenya. It enables the free movement of people and goods between the two countries.

* Lunga Lunga OSBP, Kenya: The Lunga Lunga OSBP is located on the Kenyan side of the border and serves as the counterpart to the Horohoro OSBP. It plays a vital role in regulating cross-border activities and ensuring the security of both nations.

During her visit to these border outposts, CGI Dr. Makakala engaged with officers, soldiers, and employees from various institutions responsible for border management. She underlined the significance of their contribution to the protection of national defence, security and development.

Dr Makakala’s visit to the Horohoro and Lunga Lunga OSBPs demonstrates the government’s commitment to enhancing border control and fostering collaboration between Tanzania and Kenya. These outposts serve as vital gateways for trade and travel, and it is therefore essential that they are effectively managed in order to maintain regional stability and prosperity.

Appreciation and Encouragement for Border Officials

During her visit to the Horohoro and Lunga Lunga One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs), the Commissioner General of Immigration in Tanzania, Dr Anna Makakala, took the opportunity to commend the border officials for their exemplary efforts. She acknowledged their commitment to excellence, dedication, and professionalism in carrying out their duties.

CGI Dr. Makakala highlighted the crucial role played by these officials in maintaining effective border control and safeguarding national defence and security, emphasising the unwavering dedication they bring to their work. She encouraged them to maintain their high standards of service, recognising the critical role they play in protecting the nation’s interests.

Collaboration for Effective Border Protection

During her visit to the Horohoro and Lunga Lunga One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs), the Commissioner General of Immigration in Tanzania, Dr Anna Makakala, emphasised the critical importance of collaboration among all institutions involved in border protection. She highlighted the necessity of a unified approach involving multiple agencies, including immigration, customs, police, and military personnel, to ensure effective border management. CGI Dr. Makakala highlighted that by working together and sharing information, these institutions can enhance border security, combat cross-border crime, and facilitate legitimate trade and travel. She urged all stakeholders to maintain their commitment to collaboration and coordination in order to guarantee the seamless and efficient functioning of the OSBPs.

Border Security for Stability and National Interest

In her address at the Horohoro and Lunga Lunga One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs), Commissioner General of Immigration Tanzania, CGI Dr. Anna Makakala, highlighted the critical role of border security in maintaining stability and preventing threats to national interests. She explained that secure borders are essential for safeguarding a nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic well-being. CGI Dr. Makakala also noted that effective border control measures help to prevent illegal immigration, reduce cross-border crime, and protect against external threats. By controlling the movement of people and goods across borders, authorities can mitigate risks to national security, public health, and the environment, thereby safeguarding the interests of the state.

Government’s Commitment to Border Security

The visit and address by Commissioner General of Immigration Tanzania, Dr. Anna Makakala, to the Horohoro and Lunga Lunga One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) demonstrate the government’s continued dedication to enhancing border control and ensuring national security. By meeting with border protection officials and conveying the government’s determination to enhance border management systems and ensure the effective protection of Tanzania’s borders, CGI Dr. Makakala reinforced the government’s commitment to these initiatives. The Commissioner General’s focus on collaboration, information sharing and capacity building demonstrates the government’s recognition that border security is a shared responsibility and requires a multi-faceted approach. By investing in modern infrastructure, training personnel, and fostering cooperation with neighbouring countries, Tanzania is taking proactive measures to address emerging threats and maintain stability along its borders.

Tanzania Media